Summer's Not Over: Weekend Trips for More Fun in the Sun!
Despite there being approximately one week of the official summer season left, the warmth and sunshine are here to stay for at least a little while longer - all the more reason to make a bucket list of weekend plans and take advantage of the longer days before they’re gone! Tacoma has so much to offer already, but exploring the different gems around Washington sure is a blast and a great way to spice up your normal routine.
Have a Lake Day
In addition to its stunning peaks and accompanying oceanside views along the majestic Pacific and Puget Sound, Washington is home to an abundance of freshwater and alpine lakes. Though many of them are quite brisk, they can also be quite refreshing, and at the very least, absolutely striking to look at. Some of our personal favorites for swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, and boating include Lake Crescent, Lake Chelan, Lake Cle Elum, and Lake Washington, but there are far too many to name!
Take a Hike at Mount Rainier National Park
Once the colder months roll around, Mount Rainier National Park becomes inundated with snow, so it’s much more accessible (and pleasant) to explore these trails during the warmer months leading up to November. Visitors can access the park through either the Paradise or Sunrise corridors of the park. To control crowds and preserve the park’s beauty, entry has recently been limited through a timed entry lottery system, so be sure to read up on all of the regulations for entering the park responsibly here, where you will be prompted to make a reservation. If you want to access a trail that does not require reservations, we recommend Naches Peak Loop and Summit Lake, each packed with stunning views of Mount Rainier and wildflowers - and if you’re lucky… plenty of wildlife!
Catch a Ferry Ride
If you live in Washington or have seen Grey’s Anatomy, you would know that ferries are a uniquely fundamental, rather scenic form of transportation in our state. Did you know that Washington State Ferries are the largest operating ferry system in the United States? There are countless ports to catch a ferry around here, whether you choose to board with your car, your bike, or merely your own two feet! The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) provides a user-friendly schedule for folks looking to board a ferry for the weekend. Some of our favorite destinations include Whidbey Island, Bainbridge Island, Vashon Island, the San Juan Islands, and even Victoria, British Columbia - don’t forget your passport!
Visit a Winery or Two
Because of our more recognized reputation for rain and coffee, Washington’s wine scene is often overlooked, despite it being equally impressive and beautiful to that of other regions in the country. Washington’s wine country is located east of the Cascade Mountains, in our more desert-like climate, and is highly concentrated in Columbia Valley, Walla Walla Valley, and Yakima Valley, as well as in Chelan, WA, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the lake as the backdrop. If you don’t want to travel far, there is always Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery, located only about an hour from Tacoma in Woodinville, WA.
Go Whale Watching
The Orca is quite sacred to Washington - I mean, our transportation cards are called “Orca Cards” for a reason! Whale watching is a rite of passage here, and we highly recommend Puget Sound Express not only for its hospitality, comfort, customer service, and guarantee to see whales, seals, and sea lions, but also for its accessibility, given that it launches boats from Edmonds, Port Angeles, AND Port Townsend.
Float a River
There’s nothing quite as refreshing or relaxing as a steady float down the river on a hot day. Whether you opt to rent a float or bring one of your own, floating a river is an inexpensive yet fulfilling weekend getaway for which you can surround yourself with endless nature and good company. We highly recommend catching a float in Fall City or Leavenworth. Pack a cooler with cold drinks and some snacks and you’re set for a fabulous day to remember!
Washington State offers an overwhelming amount of scenery and fun and we hope you’ll take full advantage for the rest of the summer season and beyond!
